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Council weighs utility relief for furloughed federal workers but takes no action
Summary
Councilor Benson asked whether the city could defer utility payments for furloughed federal employees; other councilors said existing financial-assistance programs and cold-weather rules are available and expressed concern about singling out one group; no motion was made.
Councilor Benson raised a proposal during the Nov. 3 meeting asking whether the city could consider deferring utility payments for federal employees who were furloughed or otherwise unable to pay and suggested the council explore a short-term relief option.
"Our brothers and sisters in the federal government are being laid off and furloughed and I was hoping that we as a city could look at them and perhaps defer utility payments," Councilor Benson said, asking the council to consider whether the city could make support equitable and fair.
Councilor DeWalt and others responded that the Proctor Utilities Commission and city staff already maintain programs to help residents facing financial hardship and noted the cold-weather rule that protects residents in the heating season. DeWalt and other members expressed concern about creating a program that singled out one group of residents over others with similar financial need.
Council members discussed the practical and fairness implications but no motion was offered and the council took no action. Councilors encouraged residents to contact city staff about existing assistance options if they are experiencing financial difficulty.
